The Political Institutions and Theories of the Hindus: A Study in Comparative Politics c14.s1.15

c14.s1.15

In this connection it is desirable to mention several treatises in the Pâli language which, although they stand apart from the general Sanskrit category, deserve a high rank as documents of Hindu public law. These are the statute-books of Buddhist monastic life and belong to the group of Śâkya’s *sîla* (conduct) teachings known as *Vinaya* (i. e. discipline, organization, government). Up till now Pâli literature has absorbed the attention of scholars solely from the standpoint of theological doctrines and psychological dogmas. But certain sections of it are rich in the material of civic and juristic institutions and ideals. The *Mahâvagga* and the *Chulla-vagga*,¹ no doubt treatises on ecclesiastical polity, may be singled out for studies in politics² similar to those which have been bestowed by European scholars on the Canon Law³ systematized by Gratian of Bologna (1150) in the *Decretum*, or on the writings of the Jesuit Fathers⁴ and the literature of the Oxford Movement.⁵ Buddhist compilations throw special light on constitutional law, conciliar (*samgha*) administration and republican nationalism, and are thus invaluable sources for an analysis of the democratic philosophy obtaining in pre-Maurya India.